Koelnmesse, host of the recent The Tire Cologne 2024 show, has unveiled its state-of-the-art event and congress centre, Confex, situated adjacent to the Cologne Messe to celebrate its centenary.
Koelnmesse, Home of The Tire Cologne, Expands Presence
The new venue, which can accommodate 6,200 guests, is designed to elevate the standards for congresses, trade fairs, and corporate events.
Founded in 1924, Koelnmesse has been a hub for international innovation and cooperation for a century. Two thousand guests, including Minister-President Hendrik Wüst, attended the anniversary event.
Confex, a €1 billion investment and part of the Koelnmesse 3.0 programme, features a 20,500-square-metre space, with a central hall accommodating 4,300 people and 22 versatile conference rooms. The venue’s design integrates seamlessly with existing structures and offers a large open-air terrace, enhancing its functionality.
NRW Minister-President Hendrik Wüst praised Koelnmesse’s role in fostering international relationships and regional economic growth. “For 100 years, Koelnmesse has been a centre for ideas and innovations worldwide. Confex will secure this special position for the next generation,” he said.
Henriette Reker, Mayor of Cologne, highlighted Confex’s potential to attract new events and audiences to Cologne, reinforcing the city’s status as a critical location for business and trade.
The Confex project exemplifies sustainable and innovative architectural practices, earning a Platinum pre-certification from the German Sustainable Building Council (DGNB).
With bookings secured through 2029, Confex is set to host its first events in the summer of 2024, including the UFI Global Congress in November. This milestone reaffirms Koelnmesse’s commitment to advancing the trade fair industry while honouring its rich history.
